Bigbelly Solar bins

What's happening

Two Bigbelly bins (one rubbish and one bottle and can recycling) are currently installed in New Brighton as part of a six-month trial.

The results of this trial will help decide if Bigbelly bins will be used across Christchurch.

The aim of Bigbelly bins is to

provide a solution to overflowing rubbish bins

reduce the scattered litter cause by the wind or seagulls

reduce complaints about overflowing rubbish bins.

How the bins work

BigBelly bins are equipped with a small solar-powered compactor. A sensor inside the bin activates the compactor, which crushes the rubbish and recycling meaning Bigbelly bins can hold up to six times more rubbish than a standard New Zealand rubbish bin.

Data is logged daily and connected with the CLEAN Management system, providing online alerts regarding the bins' status. This alert allows contractors to know exactly how full each bin is and when it needs emptying.

Results so far

Bigbelly bins have reduced contractor visitsStandard bins at this location were emptied on average 14 times per week (peaking at 21 times). The Bigbelly rubbish bin is emptied on average once a week.

Whale Pool area clean and tidyPublic feedback about rubbish in the Whale Pool has reduced significantly.

Positive feedback receivedPositive feedback has been received from local New Brighton residents who used to pick up several plastic bags of litter in the area. They say now they rarely have to pick rubbish up.

Rodent and seagull freeThe Bigbelly bins flaps (like clothing bins) have to be physically opened, making them rodent and seagull-proof.

Bad recycling habitsLarge numbers of items placed in the recycling bin are not actually recyclable. Changes are being made to the Bigbelly bin lids to help prevent this contamination and increase the level of recycling. Find out what is recyclable.

What we have learned so far

The solution is effective as it has reduced the amount of rubbish in the area, stopped overflowing rubbish bins and ensured local facilities like the Whale Pool are in a cleaner state.